So you’re starting the process of looking for a new roof. You’ve got some nice options, but making the decision and knowing what roof is right for you can be a challenge.
We’re here to help you make an informed decision between metal roofing vs. asphalt shingles—two of the best roofing materials on the market, in a side-by-side comparison.
Metal Roofing 101
If you’ve owned a home for any amount of time, you might have noticed that metal roofing is starting to pop up more and more often. One reason that’s the case is because of all the recent advancements that make it more and more desirable for homeowners.
In many cases, metal roofing will last significantly longer than other roofing materials, offer more variations in color, and can be more durable. However, metal roofing does cost a premium, especially if you’re trying to get a premium metal for your roof.
One thing to consider before setting your sights entirely on metal roofing is whether or not it’s worth the extra price point; we’ll break that down more below.
Asphalt Shingles 101
Asphalt shingles are by far the most popular roofing material on the market, with just under 80% of homeowners reporting they either have them or plan to get them. For a good reason, too, asphalt roofs are affordable, low maintenance, and come in a variety of styles, so you can find something that matches your home’s aesthetic perfectly.
Most new homes have asphalt shingles installed when they’re built, and many would consider them to be the standard used throughout the roofing industry.
What’s Better for Your Home: Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt Shingles?
To really know what’s going to fit your home better, you need to think about the consequences of each roofing material. Metal roofs are typically more expensive than asphalt, but they also offer better energy efficiency and a longer lifespan.
What Curb Appeal are You Looking For?
Curb appeal is the impact that your shingles have on the way your home looks from the street, your yard, or your driveway. No matter the material you choose, it will impact your curb appeal, and it’s important to consider the impact before you install it on your roof.
Curb Appeal for Metal Roofing
Metal roofs are typically the most expensive option of the two, but they also come in more color options, textures, and styles than your standard asphalt roof. They give off a more industrial, modern, and sometimes rustic look depending on the color and style you choose. Metal roofs are often also seen as upscale.
Curb Appeal for Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt roofs are more affordable and typically the most popular option, especially if you’re on a budget. They come in many color options that can blend in with the look of your home. Typically asphalt roofs are more natural-looking and blend better into traditional or classic home designs. Designer and architectural asphalt shingles do, however, have a unique appearance and curb appeal.
Color and Variety
The variety and colors you can choose from will help you tweak that curb appeal to fit the rest of your home. In addition, contrasting or complimenting your siding, gutters, and other features can add a lot of depth to your home’s look.
Metal roofs offer the most variety in color and texture, while asphalt typically offers less. Metal roofs also have more options when it comes to texture, while asphalt has a lot of the same standard appearances.
Cost and Installation Time
When it comes to cost and installation time, you can expect metal roofing to take the bag. Because the metal materials are heavier and need more specialized installation, they are more expensive and take longer to install.
Asphalt shingles offer fast installation plans, sometimes only needing a day to complete the work. The cost is often much more reasonable, but labor costs can be high depending on your roof size and slope.
Metal Roof average cost: $40,000 – $80,000
Asphalt Roof average cost: $15,000 – $40,000
Durability and Lifespan
In terms of durability and lifespan, metal roofs are more durable, but they come with a premium cost which might not be worth it if you’re looking for something that can be just as effective at keeping your home protected but doesn’t cost as much.
Although asphalt shingles offer lower costs than metal roofs, they are often not as durable. You can expect that they only last around 25-30 years before needing to be replaced. Metal roofs, on the other hand, will last from 50-100 years with proper care.
ROI and Home Resale Value Metal
Return on investment can be significant when it comes to the resale value of your home. A new roof can be expensive, and the resale value of your home is important to consider if you plan on selling soon after the roof is replaced. Metal roofing offers better energy efficiency and lower cost over time which will likely make them more attractive when it comes time for showing your property and making it easier to sell (even with the higher upfront costs).
A home with asphalt shingles will likely need a new roof every 20 or so years, and the individuals purchasing the home from you will want to know that the roof has been recently replaced so that they don’t need to worry about it. Metal roofing is almost always the better choice when it comes to ROI and resale value.
At Red Canyon Roofing we’ll help you get the most out of your new roof. Whether you’re looking for asphalt shingles or a more premium metal roof, we can help guide you to the right product.
